Brownouts

A brownout is a temporary drop in voltage in an electrical power supply. Unlike a blackout, where power is completely lost, a brownout causes lights to dim and electrical devices to operate inefficiently or shut down. Brownouts often occur during periods of high demand for electricity, such as hot weather when many people use air conditioning. Utilities may intentionally reduce voltage to prevent a total blackout or to manage limited resources. Although they are usually short-lived, repeated brownouts can damage electrical appliances and disrupt services.